The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) began a naval exercise titled "Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz" on 16/2. The drill, which commenced from Abu Musa island in southern Iran, aimed to prepare the IRGC for "potential security and military threats" and enhance its rapid response capabilities. Major General Mohammad Pakpour, IRGC leader, supervised the activity, stating the force "has built a strong fortress around the island."

Iranian warships and armed boats participate in a sea exercise in a video released on 16/2. Video: IRGC

According to Iranian media, units stationed on Abu Musa island can operate independently without mainland support. These units are reportedly equipped with missiles capable of destroying enemy destroyers within a 1,000 km radius.

The IRGC conducted this exercise ahead of the next round of Iran-US negotiations, scheduled for 17/2 and mediated by Oman. The drill also coincided with a significant deployment of US military forces in the Middle East region.

The Strait of Hormuz holds strategic importance as the sole gateway connecting major Gulf oil-exporting nations, including Saudi Arabia, Iran, UAE, Kuwait, and Iraq, to the rest of the world. An estimated 20-21 million barrels of oil are transported through the strait daily, accounting for 20-30% of global oil consumption.

The location of the strait of Hormuz. Graphic: CSIS

The location of the strait of Hormuz. Graphic: CSIS

Tensions between Tehran and Washington have been high. Discussions between the two sides resumed on 6/2 in Oman, marking the first talks since diplomatic efforts collapsed in 6/2025. This earlier breakdown followed a 12-day conflict initiated by an Israeli attack on Iran, which concluded after the US joined in targeting Iranian nuclear facilities. Recently, President Donald Trump has intensified pressure on Iran to reach an agreement, deploying the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group near Iran. On 13/2, Trump also announced that a second aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, would soon depart for the Middle East.

Mohammad Akbarzadeh, an IRGC commander, stated on 16/2 that all foreign vessels in the area are "fully monitored and within our sights." He added, "Iranian armed forces are prepared, monitoring enemy movements, and never ignoring threats."

Nguyen Tien (According to AFP, AP, IRNA)